NEW GLASGOW – Marlene Beatrice Aikens, 68, New Glasgow passed away, Saturday, November 29, 2008 in the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow, surrounded by her family. Born in Spencerville, Ont., she was a daughter of the late George Edward and Jessie Irene (Whitley) Ward. She was employed as a PCW with Glen Haven Manor, New Glasgow for 16 years. Following retirement, she provided private care for the elderly until her health declined. Marlene was an ardent Blue Jay fan, enjoyed gardening and was well known for her sock knitting. She enjoyed helping people, especially the elderly. Surviving are husband of 28 years, John George “Donnie” Aikens; daughters, Cathy (Troy) Boyles, Trenton; Kimberlee (Donald ) Gordon, Westville; Debbie (Valdis) Balodis, Elgin; sons, David (Linda) Caverley, Dartmouth; Michael Caverley, New Glasgow; grandchildren, Jordan, Summer, Skyler, Blaine, Marlee, Brandon (Terri), Erin, Devon, Karolin, Madelin, Meaghan, Robert, Corey and Kenneth; great grandsons, Kalem and Nathan; sister, Phyllis Whitney, Prescott, Ont.; special friends, Wanda Whidden and Helen Mackenzie; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her first husband, Kenneth Winston Wournell; sister, Shirley Falle. The family will receive visitors 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Tuesday in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow, where funeral service will be held 2 p. m. Wednesday in the chapel with Pastor Joe Van Buskirk officiating. A reception will follow at First United Baptist Church, New Glasgow. Donations may be made in her memory to the Pictou County SPCA, Aberdeen Hospital Chemotherapy Department or the Aberdeen Palliative Care Society.